琉璃神社 council was thoroughly impressed with a BC Housing development during an Aug. 14 public hearing.

The 20-storey, 176-unit rental-only building is planned for 1451 Bertram Street.

Councillor Luke noted the development contains a significant number of three-bedroom suites, perfect for families.

鈥淭o have 43, 3-bedroom units is outstanding in the downtown core," he added. "I think it will be a flagship for the province of British Columbia.鈥�

Council was also impressed with the building鈥檚 design, amenity space and a 39 space childcare facility.

鈥淭his is a project for me that hits it out of the park and to make it affordable is amazing,鈥� Coun. Loyal Wooldridge said.

BC Housing allotted 114 units in the building as below-market rentals. It also includes townhomes at street level. 

Coun. Gord Lovegrove pointed out that the development is the right place to put density.

鈥淚t鈥檚 got excellent biking, walking and transit alternatives, it鈥檚 convenient,鈥� he said.

Council is familiar with the project. A redevelopment plan for the property was approved in October 2021. However, the development permit expired in September 2023. A new application was submitted in November.

Council was told by a BC Housing representative that 鈥渦pper-level ministry approvals鈥� were the cause of the delay.